Letter: Republicans should constrain president

GOP lawmakers would rather lick Trump's boots than keep him under control.

Editor:

The term “gaslighting” derives from the 1944 movie “Gaslight.” It means lying so often and so large that truth and fiction become indistinguishable. President Donald Trump is a masterful gaslighter.

The Washington Post Fact Checker lists more than 10,800 of his “misstatements.” There were 17 in his recent Orlando, Fla., rally. He also lied when he swore to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution. He obstructs justice daily by refusing all subpoenas from Congress and issuing executive orders to override legislation.

He undermines our allies while adoring enemy dictators. Dividing America by attacking the press, threatening reporters, and his fellow American political opponents makes us weak, not great. His campaign had more than 100 contacts with Russia, a U.S. enemy. He said he'd accept foreign help again, elevating his political fortunes over America's welfare.

More than 40 administration officials have had to leave office due to incompetence, corruption or annoying Trump. Multiple campaign officials were convicted. Trump overrides disqualifying background checks. As president, he's making profits, including foreign money, from his clubs. He's still doing projects in foreign countries. His charity and university were shut down for corruption. He repeatedly cheats banks, investors, contractors and employees.

Congressional Republicans refuse to uphold their duty to constrain this rogue president. They are too busy licking his boots.